SYMBIONT: Designing Bioinspired Objects for Tactile Interpersonal Communication

The use of nonverbal mediums such as haptics offers new ways of interacting in a world dominated by verbal communication. In order to facilitate affective tactile interpersonal communication in shared spaces or across distances, SYMBIONT is designed as a pair of bioinspired soft robotic objects. SYMBIONT integrates Biomorphic aesthetics and Biomimetic behavior through Iterative Prototyping, Annotated Portfolio, and Research through Design. By using SYMBIONTs, users can communicate through nuanced interactions enabled by bend and pressure sensors paired with vibrating, curling actuators. SYMBIONT aims to utilize tactile mediums to address geographical, social, and communication barriers, improving a sense of presence. Attendees will be invited to engage with SYMBIONT's mediated tactile experience and reflect on its emotional and sensory aspects. This paper outlines the iterative prototyping process, the system's design, aesthetics, fabrication and interaction logic.